Originally released in 2012, Lunch at Allen’s Christmas album Zuzu’s Petals has jazz, blues and pop elements that make for a wonderful holiday experience that’s a little out of the ordinary. Based in Ontario, Lunch at Allen’s is Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan and Ian Thomas. They are joined by drummer Al Cross and bassist Victor Bateman. The four Canadian singer/songwriters have written for or sung on many albums, penning hits for several big names. Here, they take us on a seasonal journey with humor and stories to create an evening of music to warm the heart and soul like a hot toddy does before a blazing yule fire. The album (and title cut) were named for a scene from “It’s a Wonderful Life” where George (Jimmy Stewart) discovers his daughter’s petals in his pocket, a symbol of love and life.  

“Sober Up for Christmas” is not your typical holiday fare but has an insightful, poignant message that a failed relationship and alcoholism can't be simply cured just for the holidays. Their creative original songs like “Every Time It's Christmas,” “Zuzu's Petals,” “Old Time Star,” “Christmas Day,” “Spending My Christmas with You,” “It’s Christmas,” “Six Teams in the NHL,” and “Oh, What a Christmas Eve” certainly have potential to become classic hits played from generation to generation. With repeated listens, these songs definitely grow on you, while it’s also hard to resist singing along with the familiar like “I'll Be Home for Christmas” and “The Christmas Song.” A relaxing kind of feel-good album with carefully crafted, lyrically attractive song fare that is earthy, mellow, warm-hearted and nostalgically sentimental. It’s perfect for something new and refreshing during the holiday season.  (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)